Trade Ministry pledges commitment to agricultural transformation at UKGCC Grand Challenge Programme

Kofi Addo, Chief Commercial Manager at the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, highlighted the government's commitment to agricultural transformation. He emphasized collaboration with the private sector.

Mr. Addo stated that the government aims to enhance value addition in Ghana’s agriculture. He mentioned working with the Ministry of Agriculture and private sector players. The goal is to scale up commercial farming operations.

Currently, smallholder farmers manage about two hectares. The government wants large-scale operators managing at least 5,000 hectares. Key inputs will be provided for mechanized and commercial farming.

This commitment follows concerns raised at a recent workshop in Accra. The UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) hosted this Grand Challenge programme. Industry players discussed challenges local farmers face during this event.

William Hunt is the Country Director of Demeter Ghana. He also chairs the UKGCC’s Agribusiness Sector Committee. Mr. Hunt urged the government to invest in modern farming techniques.

He believes these investments can maximize income and improve productivity. Despite challenges, he sees immense potential in Ghana's agriculture sector. With proper tools and policies, they can close the yield gap.

Mr. Hunt also called for new farm funds supporting mechanization and irrigation. Reliable supply chains for processing and export markets are essential too.

The UKGCC Grand Challenge programme encourages innovation in Agriculture and Energy sectors. It is a structured competition for developing technological or financial solutions.

Adjoba Kyiamah is the Executive Director of UKGCC. She explained that the programme supports innovation addressing national challenges. It fosters collaboration among researchers, entrepreneurs, government agencies, and businesses.

The initiative provides capacity-building and funding opportunities for innovators as well. This helps refine their solutions into commercially viable projects.

During the workshop at Mix Design Hub in Accra, applicants exchanged ideas and refined concepts. They utilized available expertise and resources to develop competitive proposals.

A panel of industry experts guided participants during this workshop session. Experts included Saqib Nazir from Mojo Payments and Dr. Markus Perkmann from Imperial College Business School.

Ms. Kyiamah noted that shortlisted applicants could pitch for spots in a UK roadshow too. This offers international exposure along with investment opportunities.

The Grand Challenge workshop will continue in Kumasi next week as well. It aims to engage stakeholders further while equipping innovators with necessary tools.

The UKGCC Grand Challenge is part of the Sankore Programme backed by the UK Government under WARIH initiative.